A gas plant located in the Rumukurusi axis of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, caught fire early on Tuesday, leading to panic among residents and business owners in the area. The incident reportedly occurred around 5 am when many people were still asleep.
Witnesses said they were alerted to the fire by shouts from the location of the gas facility owned by Hydropet Oil Services Limited. The fire, which residents described as significant, raised concerns among those living and working in the vicinity.
One shop owner, identified as Grace, recounted waking up around 5:20 am and seeing the fire. She expressed fear, especially considering the proximity of her shop to the gas plant.
As of 9 am, the Federal Fire Service was on the scene attempting to extinguish the fire. It was reported that the Shell fire service ultimately managed to put out the fire after approximately four hours.
A resident highlighted the lack of nearby fire stations, noting that the Shell Fire Services played a crucial role in preventing a potential explosion. Concerns over the safety of residents and the possibility of an explosion prompted a significant police and fire service presence in the area.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Grace Iringe-Koko, was contacted for further details, but no response had been received as of the time of reporting. The cause of the fire and any resulting damage or injuries are yet to be officially confirmed.